Brazil Prevails in Copa

Even without many of its top players, Brazil won its first South American soccer championship since 1999.

Adriano scored the tying goal three minutes into second-half injury time, and the World Cup champion defeated Argentina, 4-2, on penalty kicks after a 2-2 tie in regulation Sunday in the final of Copa America.

“We never thought it would be easy,” Brazil Coach Carlos Alberto Parreira said. “Argentina came with all these experienced players, but our team proved they are capable of overcoming any difficulties.”

While both teams were missing many regular starters, given the tournament off after lengthy European club seasons and tough World Cup qualifiers, Brazil brought along almost no veterans.

Argentina’s Cristian Gonzalez converted a penalty kick in the 20th minute after Luisao brought down Luis Gonzalez in the penalty area, but Luisao tied the score when he headed in Alex’s free kick one minute into first-half injury time.

Argentina, seeking its first title since 1993, took a 2-1 lead in the 88th minute on Cesar Delgado’s goal. Adriano then tied it late in second-half injury time with his tournament-high seventh goal.

“I can’t explain how I’m feeling right now,” Adriano said. “This is definitely the greatest moment in my career.”

There was an altercation involving the teams at the end of regulation, with Argentina players unhappy with taunts from Brazil’s bench.

Referee Carlos Amarilla of Paraguay requested riot police to help separate the teams.

By Copa America rules, the teams immediately went to penalty kicks without overtime, and Brazil goalkeeper Julio Cesar dived to his right to block Argentina’s opening shot. Gabriel Heinze then put Argentina’s second shot over the crossbar.

Adriano, Edu, Diego and Juan converted penalty kicks for Brazil, which has won three of the last four titles and seven overall. Cristian Gonzalez and Juan Pablo Sorin converted penalty kicks for Argentina.